DOE Orders Colorado Coal Plant to Stay Open Until 2026

The U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order on Tuesday directing a coal-fired power plant in northwest Colorado to remain operational beyond its scheduled closure, citing risks to the regional power grid amid rising energy demands. The directive targets Unit 1 at the Craig Station in Moffat County, operated by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, which had planned to shut down the unit by December 31 as part of a shift toward renewable energy sources.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, a provision that permits the department to mandate continued operation of facilities during crises such as energy shortages or threats to public safety. The order requires the unit to stay online until at least March 30, 2026, with the possibility of further extensions. According to the department, Colorado and other Western states face an acute shortage of electric energy and generation capacity, which could result in power outages affecting homes, businesses, and essential services if the plant closes as planned. The measure aims to preserve grid stability, particularly during peak winter demand.